News and Blogs

Scouting on the wards

Evelina London Children's Hospital pilots its own Scout and Guide Group.

The hospital, in central London, has teamed up with Scouts and Girlguiding to offer fun and activities to its patients and their siblings aged 6-18 years.

'Make friends and develop confidence'

With the help of The Scout Association, Girlguiding, enthusiastic volunteers from nearby Westminster School and hospital staff, the young people will get to experience the fun, challenge and adventure of Scouting on a Monday evening between 6 and 7pm, ensuring that young people do not miss out while in hospital. More than 20 volunteers work on a rota basis to provide a full programme of activities.

Deputy Director of Operations, Nicola Grinstead, who is leading the project, says: 'Through providing fun and interactive activities, Scouting and Guiding supports young people to learn new skills, make friends and develop confidence. We are really excited about the possibility of extending this opportunity to those young people who are patients in our care.'

The Scout and Guide Group has already enjoyed successful pilot evenings, and the 1st Evelina Children’s Hospital Scout and Guide Unit aims to officially open on 17 June. Many of the children involved in the activities are also keen to join Scouting and Guiding in their local area once they return home.

Nick de Naeyer, an Explorer Scout Leader and Group volunteer, whose son is a patient at the hospital, said, 'Volunteers are in place to give the young people important Scouting activities and skills and get the children away from the hospital beds. If that’s not possible, we’ll take Scouting to the bedsides. It’s a great opportunity to do a little bit of good for the community.'

Scouting for all

We aim to offer everyday adventure to as many young people as possible, whatever their circumstances. To help us bring Scouting to even more young people all over the UK, get involved.